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Safer, stronger communities with AboitizPower’s mangrove projects
As communities feel the effects of a warming world, the importance of propagating and protecting mangroves stand out in the efforts to mitigate carbon emissions buildup. While already being able to sequester three to five times more carbon than forest trees, mangroves also do a lot more, serving as a habitat for various species in coastal ecosystems — hence, sustaining the livelihoods of fisherfolk — and as a protector of vulnerable communities against erosion and storm surges. In celebration of the International Day for Conservation of Mangroves, Aboitiz Power Corporation recognizes the tremendous importance of mangroves, as well as the exemplary efforts of its business units and stakeholders in helping conserve and restore mangrove forests in their communities. Quarterly collaborations In Maco, Davao de Oro, AboitizPower subsidiary Therma Marine, Inc. celebrated Philippine Environmental Month last June with another one of its quarterly collaborations with the public sector and civil society organizations in cleaning the coast and planting mangroves within its vicinity. “The first mangrove tree planting and clean-up drive took place in 2019, and since then, it has become a recurring event for TMI,” said TMI safety, health and environment supervisor Chrisyl Garcia. “By organizing these activities on a regular basis, TMI is able to contribute to the restoration of mangrove habitats and the overall well-being of coastal ecosystems.” “By conducting these events, TMI aims to raise awareness about the importance of mangroves and engage community members, volunteers, and employees in hands-on conservation efforts. The initiative has likely fostered a sense of environmental responsibility among participants,” she added. On that single June day, a total of 110 kilograms of residual waste were collected, while 550 mangrove seedlings were planted. Over the years, TMI's mangrove-planting and clean-up drive has consistently gained momentum, with increased participation from volunteers from the Diocese of Maco, the Bureau of Fire Protection, the Philippine National Police, the 1001st Brigade, the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office, the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office and local private company Gas Island Petroleum Corp. “These stakeholders have played a crucial role in leading discussions on how to effectively plant the mangroves. Their expertise and experience have been invaluable in guiding the participants on the proper techniques and methods of planting mangrove saplings. They share their knowledge about the ideal planting locations, appropriate species selection, and necessary care and maintenance practices for the newly planted mangroves,” Garcia said. This collaboration has enhanced the success and impact of TMI's mangrove-planting and clean-up drives, ensuring that the activities are conducted in a well-informed and efficient manner. “Overall, the consistent involvement of volunteers and leaders in discussing mangrove planting techniques underscores the collective effort and shared commitment towards the preservation and restoration of mangrove ecosystems,” said Garcia. [caption id="attachment_162206" align="aligncenter" width="1536"] Volunteers from public, private and civil society organizations work together at TMI, not just in planting mangroves, but also in fostering strong partnerships and creating a platform for knowledge exchange and shared responsibility in mangrove conservation.[/caption] Adopt-a-mangrove Meanwhile, in Mariveles, Bataan, GNPower Mariveles Energy Center Ltd. Co. kickstarted its own efforts in mangrove conservation by signing a memorandum of agreement with development partners for an estimated P7-million “5 Hectares Orani Mangrove Adoption and Protection Project” that is expected to start implementation in September. Under the MOA, GMEC partnered with the provincial government of Bataan, the municipality of Orani, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the Tubo-tubo Fisherfolks Association to improve the existing conditions of the mangrove areas in the allotted five hectares for a period of five years, subject to possible renewal. “Through this initiative, we envision to improve the existing conditions of the mangrove areas in the province of Bataan, starting in the municipality of Orani,” said GMEC associate vice president for community relations Arcel Madrid. “Adopting a mangrove site is vital for coal-fired power plant companies like GMEC because mangrove forests play a significant role in mitigating climate change through carbon sequestration.” “With these efforts, GMEC will also help uplift the lives of our community partner, the Tubo-tubo Fisherfolks Association, by providing a sustainable fishing ground and viable alternative livelihood to improve their socio-economic status,” he added. In the longer run, GMEC looks forward to more mangrove site adoption projects and other corporate social responsibility endeavors that are aligned with local and national development goals. [caption id="attachment_162207" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] Representatives from GMEC, the Provincial Government of Bataan, the Municipality of Orani, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, and the Tubo-tubo Fisherfolks Association sign an MOA on mangrove adoption and protection.[/caption] Coastal stronghold At the coastal area of Punta Dumalag, Davao, the Aboitiz Cleanergy Park stands as a sanctuary, not just of pawikan (turtles) and rare bird species, but also of mangrove biodiversity. “It’s unbelievable how [the] Aboitiz [Foundation] has developed Punta Dumalag Cleanergy Park to what it is today,” said frequent visitor Cyra Quilaneta of Junior Chamber International Davaoeña Daba-Daba. “The highlight for us [in visiting the park] is the education and experience it provides our members and their guests, especially the youth. We get to appreciate the importance of mangroves by seeing its functions personally — trapping [coastal] trashes and [supporting] turtle hatcheries.” The team at AboitizPower distribution unit Davao Light and Power Co., Inc. spearhead the activities at the Cleanergy Park, which include educating students and guests by hosting tours, as well as assisting them with mangrove-planting. “JCI Davaoeña Daba-Daba, together with JCI Davao, is an organization that supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly #14: Life Below Water. By protecting and restoring mangroves, we contribute to overall sustainable development,” Cyra said. To date, 18,138 mangroves have been planted at the Cleanergy Park. However, several natural and man-made factors have rendered its survival rate at only 30 percent. “While [the] Aboitiz Foundation and its partners have made commendable strides in mangrove protection, the task is far from complete. Mangrove protection requires collective effort to be effective. Mangroves face numerous threats, including habitat loss, climate change impacts, pollution, and unsustainable resource extraction,” Cyra explained. “To ensure the long-term viability of mangrove ecosystems, ongoing efforts are necessary. Continuous awareness, education and action of more groups and organizations is crucial.” “Sustainability remains at the core of AboitizPower and our business units have concretized this through their efforts in caring for mangrove ecosystems and the wider environment,” said AboitizPower president and CEO Manny Rubio. “I commend our team members for helping harness the collective efforts of the company, various partners and host communities in bringing us closer to our aspiration of a better and cleaner tomorrow.” The post Safer, stronger communities with AboitizPower’s mangrove projects appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Century Pacific eyes ‘Saving Our Seas’
Listed Century Pacific Food Inc. has taken another step towards achieving cleaner seas with the launch of its new Saving Our Seas Campaign. Established in 1986, Century Tuna, the country’s leading canned tuna brand, aims to lead the charge in promoting the circular economy and biodiversity in partnership with impact organization HOPE through its Aling Tindera waste-to-cash program. “The Philippines is among the top contributors of plastic waste in the world, posing a threat to communities and marine life. Conversely, this presents an opportunity to unlock value in plastic waste and prevent it from leaking into nature by incentivizing critical movers in the cycle and creating a circular economy — a win-win scenario for both people and the planet,” Carlo Endaya, CNPF’s vice president and general manager for Century Tuna, said. War vs plastic With the Saving Our Seas campaign, Century Tuna jumpstarts the cycle with a plastic waste collection program. The initiative kicked off in Mabini, Batangas, globally renowned for its lush marine life and biodiversity and a haven for scuba drivers. A total of 212 volunteers, including Century Tuna Ambassador Alden Richards and the Century Tuna Superbods, collected 805 kilograms of trash, among the largest volumes collected in the area. To encourage long-lasting behaviors, multiple plastic waste collection points were installed within the coastal areas, where community members can sell plastic trash in exchange for cash. These drop-off points are managed by the community’s sari-sari store owners from HOPE’s Aling Tindera Program. These women micro-entrepreneurs accumulate the plastic waste and ensure it is properly recycled and upcycled back into the circular economy. To-date, there are more than 100 Aling Tindera sites in the country. To encourage long-lasting behaviors, multiple plastic waste collection points were installed within the coastal areas, where community members can sell plastic trash in exchange for cash. Plastic waste accumulated from Aling Tindera sites is then sold to the Plastic Credit Exchange, generating income for these women entrepreneurs. PCX is a global plastic solutions platform and credit exchange that has an entire ecosystem of partner companies who can reliably process, recycle, and upcycle post-consumer plastic waste into useful materials or energy. Furthermore, PCX converts recycled/upcycled plastic waste into plastic credit, creating an offsetting mechanism for companies who want to reduce their plastic waste footprint and commit to Net Zero Plastic Waste. The post Century Pacific eyes ‘Saving Our Seas’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Mindoro oil spill damage valued at P41.2B — report
The sinking of oil tanker MT Princess Empress in Oriental Mindoro last year caused at least P41.2 billion worth of damage to the environment and coastal communities, according to a report by a sustainability think tank......»»
Tsunami warning lifted after Magnitude 7.4 quake strikes off Surigao del Sur
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology on Saturday evening canceled the tsunami warning it issued for all coastal communities in the provinces of Surigao del Sur and Davao Oriental following the major quake that jolted several Mindanao areas......»»
P2.25M aid to quake victims
The Office of the Civil Defense and the Department of Social Welfare and Development-Davao Region have revised the total cost of assistance to P2,249,382.27 for the victims of the recent earthquake in Sarangani, Davao Occidental. The agencies distributed 511 non-food items to aid the affected residents. The earthquake resulted in nine fatalities, 13 injuries, and the displacement of 348 families. Davao Occidental suffered the most damage, with 129 infrastructures damaged and approximately 350 houses affected. Despite the severity of the earthquake, a state of calamity was not declared. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology clarified that a tsunami was unlikely, but urged coastal communities to remain vigilant during aftershocks. The Philippines is vulnerable to strong earthquakes due to its location on the Ring of Fire......»»
UN climate rapporteur urged to probe reclamation projects
Fishers’ group Pambansang Lakas ng Kilusang Mamamalakaya ng Pilipinas (Pamalakaya) has presented to the United Nations human rights expert on climate change, issues affecting fisherfolk, including reclamation projects and other destructive projects in coastal communities, damage compensation, and exclusive rights of marginalized fishers to fishing grounds and territorial waters......»»
Victims of abduction recount how and why they lived with Bataan coastal communities
Effects of reclamation projects to the communities are what Jonila and Jhed were looking into in Bataan. But because of their abduction, not only was their research cut short, the results of their investigations disappeared after their equipment and gadgets were confiscated by the military. The post Victims of abduction recount how and why they lived with Bataan coastal communities appeared first on Bulatlat......»»
News in Pictures | 2 envi activists filed counter affidavit against perjury case
"Jonila and Jhed deserve their complete liberty from any form of harassment and intimidation, for them to continue their advocacy work in the coastal communities.” The post News in Pictures | 2 envi activists filed counter affidavit against perjury case appeared first on Bulatlat......»»
Aboitiz Land gets Circle of Excellence Award for Diversity Company of the Year at the Asia CEO Awards
Aboitiz Land, the real estate arm of the Aboitiz group, is among those honored with the prestigious Circle of Excellence Award under the Diversity Company of the Year category at the Asia CEO Awards held at the Manila Marriott Hotel on 24 October 2023. This recognition highlights the company’s steadfast commitment to promoting Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in every aspect of its culture. “Aboitiz Land’s dedication to diversity and inclusion extends far beyond our organization’s borders. We strive to create a positive influence not only within our team, but also among the vecinos we serve and the local communities surrounding our projects,” David Rafael, CEO and president of Aboitiz Land said. Fostering Inclusivity: A Closer Look at Aboitiz Land’s DE&I Program What sets Aboitiz Land’s DE&I program apart is its holistic approach, addressing each stage of the employee journey to strengthen diversity, equity, and inclusion. Here are some key features of Aboitiz Land’s DE&I program: The organization adopts flexible educational and geographical hiring requirements, prioritizing relevant professional experience over strict educational attainment. The consanguinity policy within the organization is relaxed, allowing relatives of employees to pursue careers within the company. A hybrid work setup is implemented, providing flexibility and saving time and resources for employees. Transparent communication is encouraged, fostering trust and openness within the organization. Employee feedback is collected regularly through channels like Amara, a virtual employee experience champion. Aboitiz Land promotes a multigenerational leadership approach and maintains a healthy gender balance with a 45:55 male-to-female employee ratio. They also ensure LGBTQIA+ representation across all levels of the company. The organization offers flexible benefits through the FlexBen program, allowing employees to customize their benefit packages based on individual needs. Expanded healthcare coverage includes provisions for child dependents, common-law and same-gender partners. Additionally, government benefits are extended to cover a wider range of family situations. Development opportunities are available to all team members, ensuring that individual growth is not limited to specific segments. Growth partnerships and curated learning solutions are provided to facilitate skill development. Aboitiz Land’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion program has led to elevated levels of employee satisfaction and engagement. This, in turn, fosters a productive workforce that is driven to consistently enhance performance, ultimately delivering better products and services. The Asia CEO Awards honors business excellence in the Philippines and is the largest event of its kind in Southeast Asia. The post Aboitiz Land gets Circle of Excellence Award for Diversity Company of the Year at the Asia CEO Awards appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Care in the neighborhood
Aboitiz Land led a coastal cleanup at Seafront Residences earlier this month to underscore its unwavering commitment to marine-life conservation. The initiative aimed to not only clean the coastline but also to gather valuable information for future efforts. This data will contribute to a more targeted and sustainable approach in the conservation of marine life. Capacity development programs and information, education, and communication activities were also implemented to promote environmental responsibility among participants. The event brought together a diverse group, including members from partnering organizations, Seafront Residences homeowners, and key institutions like the Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine Coast Guard auxiliary, local barangay, Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office, municipal administrator and the Department of Education. Nestled at the core of Seafront Residences lies the Pawikan Nature Reserve, designated as a critical nesting site for endangered pawikans. Upholding the cleanliness of these coastal regions is integral to ensuring the preservation of the pawikans’ natural habitat. Ongoing initiatives, including regular coastal cleanups, are set to continue in the coming years, ensuring the sustained protection of both the pawikans and their coastal habitats. The steadfast dedication of Aboitiz Land at Seafront Residences not only enhances the coastal biodiversity but also sets an inspiring example for coastal communities across the Philippines. This approach highlights Seafront Residences’ significant role in coastal cleanup and the protection of endangered pawikans, reflecting Aboitiz Land’s commitment to environmental sustainability and care for both human and marine life. Aboitiz Land’s environmental conservation efforts at Seafront Residences have been recognized with the prestigious Silver Award in the Environmental Category at the FIABCI Philippines Property and Real Estate Excellence Awards 2022. The post Care in the neighborhood appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
What we know about the Hamas assault on Israel
Gun battles raged Sunday between Hamas militants and Israeli forces a day after the Islamist group launched a surprise attack on Israel from Gaza, in a dramatic escalation of the Israel-Palestinian conflict. Hundreds of people have been killed on both sides since the Iran-backed Hamas launched the multi-pronged assault at dawn on Saturday, with Israeli forces fighting holdout militants and pounding the Gaza Strip with air strikes. This is what we know about the conflict so far: How it unfolded The army said hundreds of Hamas militants attacked Israel from around 6:30 am (0330 GMT) on Saturday, the Jewish holiday of Simchat Torah, in an assault that also came 50 years after the outbreak of the 1973 Arab-Israeli war. The Islamist group fired thousands of rockets into Israel from Gaza as its militants used explosives and bulldozers to break through the fence surrounding the blockaded Palestinian enclave. Using motorbikes, pickup trucks, motorized gliders, and speed boats, the militants streamed into Israeli urban areas including Ashkelon, Sderot, and Ofakim, which is about 22 kilometers (13 miles) from Gaza. The gunmen attacked a rave party attended by hundreds of young Israelis near Kibbutz Reim, close to Gaza, Israeli media reported. Israel said Hamas has taken more than 100 hostages in Israel. They include an unknown number of Americans and Germans. The militants overran several locations inside Israel, including a Sderot police station where they engaged in a shootout with Israeli forces on Sunday. How Israel is responding Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to reduce to "rubble" Hamas hideouts in Gaza, an impoverished enclave of 2.3 million people hemmed in by an Israeli blockade for more than 15 years. The army said it has deployed tens of thousands of soldiers to fight the militants who were still "on the ground" Sunday on Israel territory. It has also carried out air strikes on Hamas positions inside Gaza, in an operation it has dubbed "Swords of Iron". Army spokesman Richard Hecht said the air raids had struck 800 targets including Gaza tunnels, buildings, and other infrastructure. The military said it aims to rescue Israeli hostages and then evacuate the entire region within 24 hours. Almost 1000 killed Israel says Hamas gunmen have killed more than 600 people and wounded over 2,000 in Israeli cities, towns, and kibbutz communities. AFP journalists have seen the bullet-riddled bodies of civilians lying on the streets in at least three locations in Israel: the city of Sderot, the nearby kibbutz of Gevim, and Zikim beach north of the Palestinian coastal enclave. An unknown number of people were reportedly killed at the rave. On the Gaza side, at least 370 people have been killed and more than 2,200 wounded, taking the combined toll to almost 1,000 dead. A British man who had been serving in Israel's army was among those killed in the Hamas attack, his family said. Two Ukrainian women who had been living in Israel were also killed, Ukraine said. Thailand has said two of its citizens were killed, while Cambodia reported the death of a Cambodian student. What Hamas said about the offensive Hamas said it fired 5,000 rockets in an offensive it has branded "Operation Al-Aqsa Flood". Its chief Ismail Haniyeh on Saturday vowed to press ahead with "the battle to liberate our land and our prisoners languishing in occupation prisons". Hamas has called on "resistance fighters in the West Bank" as well as in "Arab and Islamic nations" to join the battle. Early on Sunday, Lebanon's Iran-backed Shiite militant group Hezbollah said it launched missiles and artillery shells into northern Israel "in solidarity" with the Hamas offensive. The Israeli army said it retaliated with artillery fire. Elsewhere, media outlets in Egypt said a policeman opened fire on an Israeli tour group in the northern city of Alexandria on Sunday, killing two Israelis and one Egyptian. How the world has reacted United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned "in the strongest terms" Hamas' attack on Israel and called for "diplomatic efforts to avoid a wider conflagration". The West, much of which has designated Hamas a "terrorist" organization, has also condemned the Islamist group's assault on Israel. President Joe Biden said the United States support for its key ally Israel was "rock solid and unwavering". The White House said on Sunday he had ordered "additional support" for Israel. The European Union chief Ursula von der Leyen said: "I unequivocally condemn the attack carried out by Hamas terrorists against Israel." Iran's President Ebrahim Raisi said the Islamic Republic supported the Palestinians' right to self-defense and warned Israel must be held accountable for "endangering the security of nations in the region". Russia has called for an "immediate ceasefire". Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who strongly supports the Palestinian cause, on Sunday urged both sides "to support peace". Saudi Arabia appealed for an "immediate halt to the escalation between the two sides, protection of civilians, and self-control". The post What we know about the Hamas assault on Israel appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Hundreds dead in Israel-Gaza war as Hezbollah launches attacks
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday warned of a "long and difficult" war, as fighting with Hamas left hundreds dead on both sides after a surprise attack on Israel by the Palestinian militant group. The conflict's bloodiest escalation in decades saw Hamas carry out a massive rocket barrage and ground, air and sea offensive Saturday that Israel's army said had killed more than 200 Israelis and wounded 1,000, while soldiers and civilians were taken hostage. Gaza officials said intense Israeli air strikes on the coastal enclave had brought the Palestinian death toll to at least 256, with nearly 1,788 wounded. As fighting raged Sunday, Lebanon's powerful Iran-backed Hezbollah movement said it had fired "large numbers of artillery shells and guided missiles" at Israeli positions in a contested border areas "in solidarity" with Hamas. Israel's army had earlier said it fired artillery on southern Lebanon in response to a shot from the area without identifying the attackers. "We are embarking on a long and difficult war that was forced on us by a murderous Hamas attack," Netanyahu said on X, formerly Twitter, early Sunday. "The first stage is ending at this time by the destruction of the vast majority of the enemy forces that infiltrated our territory," he added, pledging no "respite" until victory. Overnight Israel battered the Gaza Strip with air strikes as rockets from the blockaded Palestinians territory rained on Israel. Sunday morning gun still battles raged between Israeli forces and hundreds of Hamas fighters in multiple locations, including at the Sderot police station across the border from Gaza. Police and Israeli army special forces "neutralized 10 armed terrorists" who were holed up inside the station, a police statement said. The bloody air, sea and land attack launched Saturday by Hamas came half a century after the outbreak of the 1973 Arab-Israeli war, taking Israel and the world by surprise. As the UN Security Council called an emergency meeting for Sunday, President Joe Biden voiced "rock solid and unwavering" support for the US ally and warned "against any other party hostile to Israel seeking advantage in this situation". - Hostages and 'so many bodies' - The Israeli army said overnight its forces were still engaged in gun battles in a string of Israel locations, in an operation labelled "Swords of Iron", as reservists were being called up. Hamas earlier released images of several Israelis taken captive, and another army spokesman, Daniel Hagari, confirmed that soldiers and civilians had been kidnapped. "I can't give figures about them at the moment," he said late Saturday, adding there was also a "severe hostage situation" in the Negev desert communities of Beeri and Ofakim east of Gaza. According to Ynet Israeli news website "dozens of Israeli captives, including numerous women, children and elders, are believed to have been taken into the Gaza Strip". The fighting prompted Israel to cut off Gaza's electricity, fuel and goods supplies, Netanyahu said. The Islamist group started the multi-pronged attack around 6:30 am (0330 GMT) on Saturday with thousands of rockets aimed as far as Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, some bypassing the Iron Dome defense system and hitting buildings. Hamas fighters -- traveling in ground vehicles, motorized paragliders and boats -- breached Gaza's security barrier and attacked nearby Israeli towns and military posts, opening fire on residents and passersby. "Send help, please!" one Israeli woman sheltering with her two-year-old child pleaded as militants outside opened fire and tried to break into their safe room, Israeli media reported. Bodies were strewn on the streets of the Israeli town of Sderot near Gaza and inside cars, the windscreens shattered by a hail of bullets. "I saw many bodies, of terrorists and civilians," one man told AFP, standing beside covered corpses on a road near Gevim Kibbutz in southern Israel. "So many bodies, so many bodies." AFP journalists witnessed Palestinian armed men gather around a burning Israeli tank, and others driving a seized Israeli military Humvee vehicle back into Gaza, where they were met by cheering crowds. - 'Gates of hell' - Israeli army Major General Ghasan Alyan warned Hamas had "opened the gates of hell". An AFP journalist in Gaza saw clouds of dust from the remains of bombed residential towers which Gaza's interior ministry said contained 100 apartments. Israel's military said it had warned residents to evacuate before targeting the multi-story buildings used by Hamas. The escalation follows months of rising violence, mostly in the occupied West Bank, and tensions around Gaza's border and at contested holy sites in Jerusalem. Before Saturday, at least 247 Palestinians, 32 Israelis and two foreigners had been killed this year, including combatants and civilians, according to Israeli and Palestinian officials. Hamas labeled its attack "Operation Al-Aqsa Flood" and called on "resistance fighters in the West Bank" as well as in "Arab and Islamic nations" to join the battle. Its armed wing, the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, claimed to have fired more than 5,000 rockets, while Hecht said Israel had counted more than 3,000 incoming rockets. Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh said the group was on the "verge of a great victory", vowing to press ahead with "the battle to liberate our land and our prisoners languishing in occupation prisons must be completed". - 'Dangerous precipice' - Air raid sirens wailed across southern and central Israel, as well as in Jerusalem on Saturday, and there were major disruptions at Tel Aviv airport where many carriers canceled flights. Israel said schools would remain closed on Sunday which marks the start of the week. Hamas took control of Gaza in 2007, leading to Israel's crippling blockade of the impoverished enclave of 2.3 million people. Israel and Hamas have since fought several wars. The last major military exchange, in May, killed 34 Palestinians and one Israeli. Violence also erupted across the West Bank, including annexed east Jerusalem, with five Palestinians killed and 120 wounded in clashes with Israeli forces and settlers, Palestinian medical services said. Countries around the world condemned the wave of attacks by Hamas, which Israel, the United States and European Union consider a terrorist group. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called the attack "terrorism in its most despicable form". But Hamas drew support from other foes of Israel, with Iran's supreme leader declaring he was "proud". UN Middle East peace envoy Tor Wennesland warned of "a dangerous precipice" and called on all sides to "pull back from the brink". (Rosie Scammell with Adel Zaanoun in Gaza) az-rsc-jd/hkb © Agence France-Presse The post Hundreds dead in Israel-Gaza war as Hezbollah launches attacks appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Israel says at ‘war’ after rocket barrages, militant infiltration
Palestinian militants have begun a "war" against Israel, the country's defense minister said Saturday after a barrage of rockets were fired and fighters from the Palestinian enclave infiltrated Israel, a major escalation in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Violence between Israel and the Palestinians has been surging for almost two years, with fatalities in the occupied West Bank hitting a scale not seen in years. At least two people were killed in Israel, officials said. Israel's Defense Minister Yoav Gallant said Palestinian militant group Hamas has "launched a war against the State of Israel." "Troops are fighting against the enemy at every location," he said in a statement. AFP journalists said Israel's military began air strikes on Gaza, following the rocket barrage from inside the territory which is sealed off from Israel by a militarized border barrier. "Dozens of IDF fighter jets are currently striking a number of targets belonging to the Hamas terrorist organization in the Gaza Strip," the military said. Rockets had earlier streamed across the sky repeatedly after the first launches from multiple locations across the Palestinian territory from 6:30 am (0330 GMT), AFP journalists in Gaza City reported. The armed wing of Hamas, which controls Gaza, said it was behind the aerial assault, saying its militants had launched thousands of rockets and its fighters seized an Israeli tank. Israel's army did not immediately comment on the tank claim when contacted by AFP. Israeli security chiefs convened over the violence, which occurred on Shabbat and during a Jewish holiday. Air raid sirens wailed across southern and central Israel, and the army urged people to stay near bomb shelters. AFP journalists in Jerusalem heard multiple rockets being intercepted by Israeli air defense systems. Sirens blared across the city on more occasions than in any Gaza conflict in the past three years. "We decided to put an end to all the crimes of the occupation (Israel). Their time for rampaging without being held accountable is over," the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades said. "We announce Operation Al-Aqsa Flood and we fired, in the first strike of 20 minutes, more than 5,000 rockets." Hundreds of Gazans flee Hundreds of residents fled their homes in eastern Gaza to move away from the border with Israel, an AFP correspondent said. Men, women and children carrying blankets and food left their homes, mostly in the northeastern part of the territory, the reporter said. Israel's military said Hamas launched "massive shooting of rockets", while at the same time "terrorists infiltrated into Israeli territory in a number of different locations". Hamas "will face the consequences and responsibility for these events", it said in a statement. In Israeli-annexed east Jerusalem, some Palestinian residents cheered and blew their car horns as sirens blared. A regional council for Israeli communities northeast of Gaza said its president was killed in an exchange of fire with attackers from Gaza. Separately, a woman in her 60s was killed "due to a direct hit" in Israel, the Magen David Adom emergency services said. Fifteen others were wounded, two of them seriously, medics said. An AFP photographer in the coastal city of Tel Aviv saw a gaping hole in a building, with residents gathered outside. Hamas calls to 'join battle' Hamas called on "the resistance fighters in the West Bank" as well as "our Arab and Islamic nations" to join the battle, in a statement posted on Telegram. The United States condemned the Hamas fire and urged "all sides to refrain from violence and retaliatory attacks." "Terror and violence solve nothing," the US Office of Palestinian Affairs wrote on X, formerly Twitter. Israel has imposed a crippling blockade on Gaza since 2007 after Hamas took power. Palestinian militants and Israel have fought several devastating wars since. The latest violence follows heightened tensions in September, when Israel closed the border to Gazan workers for two weeks. The shutdown of the crossing came as Palestinian demonstrators along the border burned tires and threw rocks and petrol bombs at Israeli troops, who responded with tear gas and live bullets. Resuming workers' passage on 28 September had raised hopes of calming the situation in impoverished Gaza, home to 2.3 million people. In May, an exchange of Israeli air strikes and Gaza rocket fire killed 34 Palestinians and one Israeli. So far this year at least 247 Palestinians, 32 Israelis and two foreigners have been killed in the conflict, including combatants and civilians on both sides, according to Israeli and Palestinian officials. The vast majority of fatalities have occurred in the West Bank, which has been occupied by Israel since the 1967 Arab-Israeli War. There has been a rise in army raids, Palestinian attacks targeting Israelis and Israeli settler violence against Palestinians and their property. The rising violence this year came against the backdrop of divisive judicial reforms introduced by the hard-right government of President Benjamin Netanyahu, who is on trial for corruption charges he denies. Several far-right ministers in Netanyahu's cabinet live in West Bank settlements deemed illegal under international law. The post Israel says at ‘war’ after rocket barrages, militant infiltration appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Prize builder
Aboitiz Land, renowned for its quality and innovation in real estate, achieved success at The Outlook by Lamudi Awards 2023 in September. The prestigious event at Shangri-La Fort witnessed Aboitiz Land securing multiple accolades, underscoring unwavering commitment to creating distinctive living spaces for the community. Seafront Residences takes second consecutive win for Best Premium House (Luzon). It features generously spread amenities including diamond parks fronting Budji+Royal houses, beachfront clubhouse and a town center that will offer well-curated retail and F&B establishments. Offering premier seaside living, Seafront Residences is a unique experience for those seeking the perfect balance between luxury and coastal beauty. Ajoya Cabanatuan, located in Barangay Valle Cruz, Nueva Ecija, has been awarded the Best Affordable House in Luzon for 2023. It offers well-designed homes and carefully planned amenities, providing residents with spacious open areas and a well-maintained environment. Additionally, the homes are designed to suit the local climate, ensuring a comfortable and sustainable living experience. What sets Ajoya Cabanatuan apart is its accessibility for the mid-market segment. While access to generous green open spaces is often associated with high-end projects, Aboitiz Land has extended these amenities to cater to the mid-market segment. This inclusivity ensures that more individuals and families can enjoy the benefits of modern living without compromising quality or comfort. Amoa has garnered recognition as the Bronze Awardee for Affordable House of the Year for Visayas and Mindanao. Amoa boasts carefully designed neighborhoods and a one-hectare central amenity, making it an ideal community for families in search of a comfortable living experience in Compostela, Cebu. By offering urban living amidst a serene natural setting, Amoa reflects Aboitiz Land’s commitment to delivering affordable, quality living spaces. Aboitiz Land recognized as Bronze Awardee for Developer of the Year and Digital Innovator of the Year. Aboitiz Land’s dedication to making strides in real estate development has been acknowledged with the Bronze Award for Developer of the Year for Visayas and Mindanao and Digital Innovator of the Year. This dual recognition reflects the company’s innovative approaches, including the introduction of OneVecino, their digital ecosystem. OneVecino aims to assist home seekers in various aspects such as property search, payments, customer support, and property management. This achievement underscores Aboitiz Land’s commitment to leveraging digital technologies to enhance the overall experience for all stakeholders in the industry. Moreover, Aboitiz Land is a developer known for its premium and exclusive communities in Cebu, including North Town Homes, Mahogany Grove, Pristina North, Priveya Hills and Foressa Mountain Town. These communities continue to be among the most respected in terms of quality and value in the region. The Outlook by Lamudi Awards is an esteemed event that spotlights industry leaders and outstanding projects in the Philippine real estate landscape. The post Prize builder appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DoF: ESG bond deals hit $3.55B
The government has funded green and social projects through the issuance of bonds amounting to $3.55 billion or P195.64 billion from March 2022 to January this year, resulting in bigger areas of replanted forestland and more flood-safe communities and benefiting agricultural entrepreneurs and students with tertiary education. The Sustainability Bond Allocation and Impact Report released Monday by the Department of Finance shows the total fund consisted of four bond transactions dedicated to environment, social and governance or ESG projects. For last year’s bond issuances, the government raised $1 billion in March, 70.1 billion Japanese yen in April, and $750 million in October. In January this year, it raised $1.25 billion. Proceeds from the bonds were used to either fully or partially finance and refinance four groups of projects by various government agencies from 2020 to 2022. DENR’s planting, marine program First, the planting and marine program by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources expanded greenery in forestland spanning 45,947.44 hectares and preserved plants in 191,081 hectares last year. Meanwhile, 244 areas covering 7.73 million hectares of terrestrial, marine, coastal, caves, and wetlands have been protected against biodiversity destruction. The P10.1-billion program provided jobs to 1,868 Filipinos this year from 1,808 in 2020 and financial aid to 68 groups from 25. Moving forward, the Marcos administration aims to boost production of bamboo and indigenous tree species on 3,565 hectares of land. Second, the flood management projects of the Department of Public Works and Highways along the country’s major rivers and river basins increased to 2,088 projects last year from 2,037 in 2020. These included floodways, dikes, water impounding structures and dredging works. The bond proceeds allocation to this program was P80.7 billion or 27 percent of the total project cost. Third, the bond proceeds enabled the Department of Labor and Employment, or DoLE, to provide business training, working capital, tools, and microinsurance to 9,112 members of the marginalized communities and displaced workers. These benefits were given under DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program, and Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/ Displaced Workers or the Emergency Employment Program. Lastly, the Commission on Higher Education and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority were able to distribute funds for free tertiary education and subsidies to Filipino youth. Beneficiaries of free education in CHED-accredited local universities and colleges increased to 349,208 last year from 253,302 in 2020. The post DoF: ESG bond deals hit $3.55B appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
SMPC distributes seaweed propagules to Caluya seaweed farmers
Integrated energy company Semirara Mining and Power Corporation, in its continued effort to expand its livelihood programs outside of its host island, recently partnered with the Department of Energy, the local government of Caluya and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources to distribute 16,000 kilos of seaweed propagules to seaweed farmers of barangays Sibato and Sibolo in the municipality of Caluya, Antique. With a total project cost of about P450,000, each of the 80 farmers from the two barangays received 100 kilos of seaweed propagules. Seaweed farming plays a vital role as a major source of livelihood in many of Caluya’s coastal communities. Harvesting seaweed, known locally as tambalang, generally takes place after 45 days, and the yields are either sold fresh or dried. [caption id="attachment_191497" align="aligncenter" width="567"] Farmers planting the newly distributed seaweed propagules.| PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF SMPC[/caption] The sundried seaweeds, which are sold to buyers mainly from Cebu, are processed into various non-food products ranging from slippers to plastic alternatives. Expressing his gratitude for the livelihood grant, Sibolo Barangay Captain Edwin Eguillon said, “Thank you very much to SMPC, because despite our remote location, we still benefited from these livelihood programs.” One of the recipients from Sibato, Genalyn Gregorio Bandolin, added, “We only have a simple livelihood, and this is really a big help. We will never forget that there’s an SMPC who helped us.” Over the past 25 years, SMPC has introduced numerous livelihood programs to communities across Semirara Island and neighboring communities, providing viable sources of income to thousands of households which continue until today. The post SMPC distributes seaweed propagules to Caluya seaweed farmers appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Need to review, change permitting process for reclamation highlighted in Senate hearing
The Senate is looking into the impacts of reclamation activities on coastal and marine ecosystems and communities, and the permitting process for these projects after President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. ordered the suspension of 22 reclamation projects in Manila Bay......»»
UN urged to investigate Aerotropolis project
Environmental group said the Aerotropolis project has "resulted in the displacement of coastal communities, the loss of their livelihood, the deforestation of their mangrove forest, and numerous cases of harassment from police and military agents." The post UN urged to investigate Aerotropolis project appeared first on Bulatlat......»»
Ghana bus strapping kills 9
Gunmen killed nine people when they opened fire on a bus in a northern Ghana district struggling with ethnic tensions and concerns over Islamist violence from across the border in Burkina Faso, a local official said Friday. The attack on Thursday morning targeted a bus carrying mostly women on their way to a local market and escorted by police, because of the tensions, in Pusiga district near the volatile Bawku area of Ghana’s Upper East Region. Pusiga district chief Zubeiru Abdulai, a local mayor, told AFP that the nine victims died from gunshot wounds when their bus was ambushed near a remote forest close to the border with both Burkina Faso and Togo. “The vehicle was occupied by mostly women and was being escorted by the police due to the volatile situation in Bawku,” he said. “The police are investigating the incident now and it will be difficult for me to establish the main reason behind the attack.” Police did not immediately respond to calls seeking more details on the attack. Upper East Region has struggled with a decades-long conflict between ethnic Kusasi and Mamprusi communities over the right to choose a new chieftain and over land rights in the mostly Muslim Bawku region, where there is a heavy police and army presence. Those tensions often flare into violence. Jihadist violence in Burkina Faso has also forced people to flee across the frontier into Ghana. Earlier this year, Ghana sent 1,000 more troops and police to Bawku to reinforce security after gunmen killed an immigration officer and wounded two more. Officials did not blame any group for that attack. Ghana’s northern frontier is also an area with well-established smuggling routes, porous borders and illegal gold mining — a combination local officials and experts worry could benefit jihadists. With Islamist militants controlling large parts of Burkina Faso over the border, Western partners are looking to help Ghana and coastal West African neighbors Togo, Benin and Ivory Coast strengthen their defenses to prevent jihadist attacks. With AFP The post Ghana bus strapping kills 9 appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Filipino activists accuse Marcos of ‘witch-hunt’
Filipino activists accused President Ferdinand Marcos Jr's government Thursday of carrying out a "witch-hunt" against rights defenders as they held rallies for the 51st anniversary of the imposition of martial law. Hundreds of people marched in Manila calling for the release of victims of forced disappearances and the abolishment of an anti-communist task force, set up by former president Rodrigo Duterte, that has been accused of targeting government critics. Rights group Karapatan said the Marcos Jr administration was using the task force to "witch-hunt activists, human rights defenders and other dissenters", while enabling the military and police to "perpetuate repression reminiscent of the martial law era". Marcos Jr's dictator father, Ferdinand Marcos, imposed martial law in 1972, unleashing his security forces on rivals, critics and dissidents. Amnesty International estimates thousands of people were killed and tens of thousands tortured and imprisoned in the brutal crackdown. Activists said rampant human rights abuses have continued under Marcos Jr, who has kept up Duterte's deadly war on drugs, as well as his National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict. Rights groups say eight activists have been "disappeared" since Marcos Jr became president in June 2022. There have been more than 400 drug-related killings during the same period, according to a monitoring group. "It's like we're still living in the shadows of 1972. This regime doesn't care about human rights," Renato Reyes, secretary general of the leftist alliance Bayan, told protesters. [caption id="attachment_186945" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] People hold placards as they join a protest commemorating the 51st anniversary of the imposition of Martial Law, at Liwasang Bonifacio in Manila on 21 September 2023. (Photo by JAM STA ROSA / AFP)[/caption] - 'Like martial law' - The rallies come after the release on Tuesday of two environmental activists who had accused the military of abducting them. Jonila Castro, 21, and Jhed Tamano, 22, had been working with coastal communities opposed to reclamation activities in Manila Bay when they disappeared on September 2 in Bataan province, near Manila. Authorities rejected the allegation, saying the women were part of a communist insurgency seeking to overthrow the government and had sought their help after voluntarily leaving the movement. Human Rights Watch senior researcher Carlos Conde told AFP some aspects of the country's human rights situation had worsened under Marcos Jr. "What we're seeing is somebody... who likes to shove human rights as an issue aside," Conde said, adding one of the reasons could be "his family have a... nasty history as far as human rights is concerned." Veteran human rights campaigner Cristina Palabay of Karapatan said she felt "more scared now" as the number of missing activists increased. Palabay said she and other members of Karapatan faced "some sort of mortal danger far greater than before", citing increased threats, profiling and surveillance. "This is actually like martial law... when people are just being picked up in the streets and justified as being held by authorities because they are suspected of being somebody," Palabay said. pam/amj/dhw © Agence France-Presse The post Filipino activists accuse Marcos of ‘witch-hunt’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»